Government

Todd County Government CenterLong Prairie, MN

21st Century Sustainable Design Meets 19th Century Landmark

Gausman & Moore (G&M) integrated modern comfort, safety and energy-efficiency into the Todd County Courthouse, while preserving the qualities that have earned the landmark a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

Now known as the Todd County Government Center, the courthouse building was originally built in 1883. Its sturdy brick exterior accented with high archways is a reflection of avant-garde Italian Renaissance style.

The courthouse has undergone many changes in its 130-year history. Most recently, G&M was involved in a complete remodel of the building. The goal: Preserve noteworthy architectural details, while ensuring the building efficiently and cost effectively continues to serve the Todd County community.

G&M began with an assessment and feasibility study, cataloging existing systems and identifying opportunities to improve energy efficiency and assure tenant comfort, while not interfering with the building’s architectural integrity.

High efficiency replacement windows were custom-designed, ensuring style and aesthetics are consistent with the original architect’s intent.G&M prescribed covering skylights in the high ceiling of the old courtroom to significantly reduce loss of heat in winter and cool in summer. Indirect lighting installed into the skylight wells preserves the intended appearance of daylighting.

19th century designers were not equipped to anticipate the infrastructure necessary to support a 21st century HVAC system. G&M designs allowed the integration of systems that generated proper airflow and circulation, without disrupting the beauty of rooms and corridors crafted decades before.

In keeping with the client’s directive for energy effi ciency, G&M replaced aging boilers and chillers with a decidedly modern geothermal well system for heating and cooling. An integrated heat recovery system uses exhaust air to heat outside air. Direct digital controls empower facilities managers to optimize building efficiency and tenant comfort.

When contemporary engineering meets classic architecture in Todd County, the result is energy savings of up to 30 percent, and a source of civic pride.